System and an Apparatus for Controlling Electric Power Supply and Methods Therefo

ABSTRACT

A system and an apparatus for controlling electric power supply and methods therefore are described. In particular, a system and an apparatus for powering down an electronic device and methods therefore comprises a device and a sensor. The sensor is configured for transmitting a sensing signal to the device via a communication protocol. The device comprises a processing module for receiving and processing the sensing signal, and powering down operation of the device in an event the sensor detects that the device is operating in an absence of the user.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/357,311, filed Nov. 21, 2016, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/258,796, filed Nov. 23, 2015, thedisclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a system and an apparatus forcontrolling electric power supply and methods therefor. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to a system and an apparatusfor powering down an electronic device and methods therefore.

Description of Related Art

The technology for powering down electronic and electrical devices isavailable, and such technology is widely used for a variety ofapplications.

The purpose of powering down a device is ultimately for power saving.Power can be saved by powering down one or more devices or by causingone or more devices to enter a mode of reduced power consumption when itis clear that they have not been used for a predetermined period oftime. Power can also be saved by powering down associated secondarydevices when one or more primary devices have been shut down.

As for computing devices, more particularly a personal computer, thedevice more often than not, is equipped with applications for settingthe computer in a power saving mode via the power options made availableto the computer. A user is able to customize the power saving modes fromthe options made available, which include the setting for switching offthe monitor or setting the computer into hibernation mode if no activityis detected within a predetermined period of time. There are alsoapplications provided by independent service providers that allow forthe computer to sleep or shutdown. These products, however, requiresoftware to be installed, and these software applications ‘eavesdrop’mouse, keyboard, and central processing unit (CPU) activity and monitorfor a lack of activity. In the event no activity is detected, thecomputer and its peripherals will be put into a sleep or shut down stateby these software applications.

As for a cable television system, the system implements a deviceconnected to a television for broadcasting cable channels to users forviewing. The device is a cable box, or known as a set-top box (STB)comprises a television tuner input and displays output to a television,and receives an external source of signal and converting the signal intocontent that can be displayed on the television screen or other displaydevice. More often than not, STBs are equipped with hard disk drives(HDD), memory, and persistent internet connection. The problem lies inthe hard powering down of the STB, which is not recommended for the STB,as the hard powering down of the STB forces the STB into shutdownwithout proper procedure, would damage the STB and appliances connectedto the STB.

There are several applications disclosed in prior art for saving energy.US 2014/0285019A1 discloses an energy saving device that has anelectrical inlet which connects to a general power outlet, and has atleast one monitored electrical outlet connecting to a computing device,the energy saving device having at least one switched electrical outletwhich connects to, and supplies electrical power to, at least oneperipheral device, which in a preferred embodiment is a computermonitor. The energy saving device further includes a switch to controlelectrical connection of the inlet to the switched electrical outlet,and thus to control supply of electric power to the peripheral devices,of which the peripherals may include printers, speakers, and desk lamps.

However, US 2014/0285019A1 is directed towards a device comprising anelectrical inlet, an electrical outlet, and a switched outlet, which hasa complex configuration for saving energy. Moreover, this prior artrelies on software implementation.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,282,655B1 discloses a computer interface utilizing asensor for sensing that a user is in the immediate vicinity of thecomputer, wherein the interface consists of a motion sensor, computersoftware for enabling the computer security, a keyboard interfaceconnected to the motion sensor, and a keyboard connected to the keyboardinterface.

Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 6,282,655B1 relies on software implementation.

US 2010/0031072A1 discloses a system for power management and safetyprotection and a method thereof, wherein the system and method areapplicable to a computer device having a sensor, whereby the sensordetects position information of a user relative to the computer deviceso as to determine whether to enter a sleep mode or a recognition mode,or the sensor detects motion information of the user so as to return toan operating mode.

However, US 2010/0031072A1 is reliant on a sensor that is built with thecomputer, and that the power management setting for this prior art isonly available for computers that are equipped with such sensor. Thesystem of this prior art is, therefore, inflexible.

Having said of the above, it should be noted that software applications,and in-built sensors with rigid operation, introduces extra cost,requirements for skilled installers, security issues for networkmanagers, and extended disruption to workplaces.

There is, therefore, a need for a power saving system and apparatus thatare not reliant on software applications, and that the system andapparatus are applicable for a wide range of electrical devices, whichare sensitive to hard power down.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention aims to provide a system, an apparatus, andmethods for controlling electric power supply to a device, wherebysuperfluous software installation is not required, and that the systemand apparatus are applicable for a wide range of devices.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a system forcontrolling electric power supply comprising a device for communicatingwith a user, a processor for determining electric power supply to thedevice, and a sensor for monitoring presence of the user.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a system forcontrolling electric power supply, wherein the processor is configuredfor transmitting the control signal to the device for powering downoperation of the device in an event the sensor detects that the deviceis operating in the absence of the user.

It is yet an object of the present invention to provide a system forcontrolling electric power supply, wherein the processor furthercomprises a control module for controlling electric power supply to apower strip. The processor is further configured for transmitting thecontrol signal to the device for powering down operation of the devicein the event the sensor detects that the device is operating in theabsence of the user.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide anapparatus for controlling electric power supply comprising a processorfor determining electric power supply to a device, wherein the processoris configured for processing and generating a control signal andtransmitting the control signal to the device via a communicationprotocol. The apparatus comprises a sensor for monitoring presence of auser, wherein the sensor is configured for transmitting a sensing signalto the processor via an interface, and wherein the processor isconfigured for transmitting the control signal to the device forpowering down operation of the device, by receiving and processing thesensing signal from the sensor, in the event the sensor detects that thedevice is operating in the absence of the user.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method ofoperation of the apparatus comprising the steps of: detecting presenceof a user for a predetermined period; and transmitting a control signalto a device connected to the apparatus for powering down the device inthe event the absence of the user is detected within the predeterminedperiod, wherein the control signal is an artificial signalcomprehensible by the device for powering down operation of the device.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a methodof operation of the apparatus connected to a power strip comprising thesteps of: detecting presence of a user for a predetermined period;transmitting a control signal to a device connected to the apparatus forpowering down the device in an event an absence of the user is detectedwithin the predetermined period; and terminating power supply to atleast an electrical outlet of the power strip, wherein the controlsignal is an artificial signal comprehensible by the device for poweringdown operation of the device.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a system forcontrolling electric power supply comprising a device for receivingexternal signals, converting the external signals into media content andfor broadcasting the media content, and a sensor for monitoring presenceof the user, the sensor is configured for transmitting a sensing signalto the device via a communication protocol.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a system forcontrolling electric power supply, wherein the device comprises aprocessing module for receiving and processing the sensing signal, andpowering down operation of the device in an event the sensor detectsthat the device is operating in an absence of the user.

It is yet an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus forcontrolling electric power supply comprising a sensor for monitoringpresence of a user, and the sensor is configured for transmitting asensing signal to a device via a communication protocol.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide anapparatus for controlling electric power supply, wherein the device isconfigured for receiving external signals, converting the externalsignals into media content and for broadcasting the media content, andthe device further comprises a processing module for receiving andprocessing the sensing signal, and powering down operation of the devicein an event the sensor detects that the device is operating in anabsence of the user.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method ofoperation of the apparatus comprising the steps of: monitoring presenceof a user; alerting the user in an event the sensor detects that thedevice is operating in an absence of the user; tracking detection of theuser activity for a predetermined period of time; and powering down thedevice in the event the absence of the user is detected for thepredetermined period of time.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a methodof operation of the apparatus comprising the steps of: monitoringpresence of a user; alerting the user in an event the sensor detectsthat the device is operating in an absence of the user; trackingdetection of the user activity for a predetermined period of time; andresetting a timer in the event the presence of the user is detected.

The preferred embodiments of the present invention, therefore,contribute to a power saving system, apparatus, and methods that are notreliant on software applications, and that the system and apparatus areapplicable for a wide range of electrical devices which are sensitive tohard power down.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a system forcontrolling electric power supply according to a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a graphical representation of an apparatus forcontrolling electric power supply according to a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a graphical representation of an apparatus forcontrolling electric power supply according to another preferredembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a graphical representation of a setup for operationof the apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a graphical representation of a setup for operationof the apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a graphical representation of a setup for operationof the apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a graphical representation of a setup for operationof the apparatus with presence of a user according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic representation of a system forcontrolling electric power supply according to a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a graphical representation of an apparatus forcontrolling electric power supply according to a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Described below are preferred embodiments of the present invention withreference to the accompanying drawings. Each of the following preferredembodiments describes an example not limiting in any aspect.

Referring to FIG. 1, the figure illustrates a schematic representationof a system for controlling electric power supply according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention. The system comprisesfundamentally a device, a processor (11), and a sensor (12).

The device according to a preferred embodiment of the present inventionis for communicating with a user, and the device is energized byelectric power being supplied to the device from a main power supply. Itis shown in FIG. 1 that the device is a personal computer (21). Thepersonal computer (21) is connected to the processor (11) fordetermining electric power supply to the device, or in this case thepersonal computer (21), and the processor (11) is configured forprocessing and generating a control signal and transmitting the controlsignal to the device via a communication protocol. The processor (11) isconnected to the sensor (12) for monitoring presence of the user, andthe sensor is configured for transmitting a sensing signal to theprocessor (11) via an interface.

The processor (11) according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention is configured for transmitting the control signal to thedevice for powering down operation of the device, by receiving andprocessing the sensing signal from the sensor (12), in an event thesensor (12) detects that the device is operating in an absence of theuser.

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the processor(11) further comprises a control module (13) for controlling electricpower supply to a power strip (31). The control module (13) is shown inFIG. 1, residing within the processor (11), and the power strip (31) isshown in FIG. 1 comprising an electrical inlet (33) for receivingelectric power supply and a plurality of electrical outlets (32),wherein each outlet (32) supplies electric power to an external deviceconnected to the outlet (32). The control module (13) compriseselectronic circuitry for controlling electric power supply to the powerstrip (31).

The processor (11) is connected to the power strip (31) via a lowvoltage control cable, preferably but not limited to a RJ11 cable, andthe processor (11) transmits the control signal to the device via acommunication protocol. The communication protocol is assisted by auniversal serial bus (USB) connection (14) to the device, which in thiscase is the personal computer (21). The USB connection is alsoconfigured for receiving electric power from the device.

The sensor (12) in a preferred embodiment of the present invention is anelectronic sensor for detecting motion, preferably but not limited to,any one of an infrared sensor or a passive infrared sensor. It will beappreciated that the sensor (12) is preferably other than an electronicsensor, wherein the motion can be detected by: optical sensors such as,preferably but not limited to, a video and camera system; sound sensorssuch as microphones and acoustic sensors; magnetism such as, preferablybut not limited to, magnetic sensors and magnetometer; radio frequencyenergy such as, preferably but not limited to, radar, microwave, andtomographic motion detection; or vibration sensors such as, preferablybut not limited to, triboelectric, seismic, and inertia-switch sensors.

The device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention is anelectronic device, as shown in FIG. 1, is a personal computer (21).However, it should be appreciated that the electronic device can beselected from a group of computing devices or electrical equipmentconfigured with high level interface.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, FIG. 2 illustrates a graphicalrepresentation of an apparatus for controlling electric power supplyaccording to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, comprisingfundamentally the processor (11) and the sensor (12) as depicted in FIG.1.

The processor (11) shown in FIG. 1, and as described in the foregoingdescription, is for determining electric power supply to a device. Theprocessor (11) is configured for processing and generating a controlsignal and transmitting the control signal to the device via acommunication protocol.

The processor (11) transmits the control signal to the device via acommunication protocol, which is assisted by a USB connection (14) tothe device, which in this case is the personal computer (21). The USBconnection (14) is also configured for receiving electric power from thedevice. The processor (11) is connected to the sensor (12) formonitoring presence of the user with the sensor (12) being configuredfor transmitting a sensing signal to the processor (11) via aninterface.

The processor (11) according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention is configured for transmitting the control signal to thedevice for powering down operation of the device, by receiving andprocessing the sensing signal from the sensor (12), in an event thesensor (12) detects that the device is operating in an absence of theuser.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, FIG. 3 illustrates a graphicalrepresentation of an apparatus for controlling electric power supplyaccording to another preferred embodiment of the present invention,comprising fundamentally the processor (11) and the sensor (12) asdepicted in FIG. 1. In this preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, the processor (11) further comprises a control module (13)for controlling electric power supply to a power strip (31). The controlmodule (13) is shown in FIG. 1 residing within the processor (11). Thepower strip (31) is shown in FIG. 1 comprising an electrical inlet (33)for receiving electric power supply and a plurality of electricaloutlets (32), wherein each outlet (32) supplies electric power to anexternal device connected to the outlet (32).

The processor (11) is connected to the power strip (31), as shown inFIG. 1, via a low voltage control cable (15), preferably but not limitedto, a RJ11 cable. The processor (11) transmits the control signal to thedevice via a communication protocol, which is assisted by a USBconnection (14) to the device, which in this case is the personalcomputer (21). The USB connection (14) is also configured for receivingelectric power from the device.

The sensor (12) in a preferred embodiment of the present invention is anelectronic sensor for detecting motion, preferably but not limited to,any one of an infrared sensor or a passive infrared sensor. It will beappreciated that the sensor (12) is preferably other than an electronicsensor, wherein the motion can be detected by: optical sensors such as,preferably but not limited to, a video and camera system; sound sensorssuch as microphones and acoustic sensors; magnetism such as, preferablybut not limited to, magnetic sensors and magnetometer; radio frequencyenergy such as, preferably but not limited to, radar, microwave, andtomographic motion detection; or vibration sensors such as, preferablybut not limited to, triboelectric, seismic, and inertia-switch sensors.

The device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention is anelectronic device, as shown in FIG. 1, is a personal computer (21).However, it should be appreciated that the electronic device can beselected from a group of computing devices or electrical equipmentconfigured with high level interface.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatusfurther comprises any one or a combination of a visual indicator,audible indicator, and a switch, wherein the visual indicator is a lightemitting diode for indicating operation of the apparatus, the audibleindicator is a buzzer for alerting operation of the apparatus, and theswitch is for controlling operational state of the apparatus.

Referring to FIG. 4, the figure illustrates a graphical representationof a setup for operation of the apparatus according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

As it is shown in FIG. 4, the apparatus according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention is mounted below a monitor of thepersonal computer (21). This preferred embodiment is a standaloneconfiguration of the apparatus, of which the apparatus is powered byelectric power supplied by the personal computer (21).

The method of operation of the apparatus in the preferred embodiment ofthe present invention in FIG. 4, comprises the steps of initiallydetecting presence of a user for a predetermined period and transmittinga control signal to a device connected to the apparatus for poweringdown the device in an event an absence of the user is detected withinthe predetermined period.

The control signal is an artificial signal comprehensible by the devicefor powering down operation of the device. In other words, the apparatusinstructs the personal computer (21) to sleep/off via an artificialkeystroke/mimicry of a keyboard connected to the personal computer (21).Ultimately, no software is required to perform this action.

Referring to FIG. 5, the figure illustrates a graphical representationof a setup for operation of the apparatus according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

The keyboard (22) in FIG. 5 is directly connected to the personalcomputer (21), and in this embodiment, the motion sensor (12) isincorporated with the keyboard (22).

The keyboard (22) comprises, preferably but not limited to, a motionsensor (12) for monitoring presence of a user within a subject, andcharacterized in that the keyboard (22) is connected to the personalcomputer (21) and transmits a sleep, hibernate, or shut down command tothe personal computer (21) if no movement of a user is detected for apredetermined period within the subject area. The motion sensor (12) is,preferably but not limited to, a passive infrared sensor.

The connection between the keyboard (22) and the personal computer (21)is, preferably but not limited to; a wireless connection such as aBluetooth connection, or a wired connection such as a USB connection.

The keyboard (22) further comprises preferably a temperature sensor (16)for providing feedback to a building management system of a temperaturestatus at a computer desk or at a keyboard area. In addition, thekeyboard (22) may further comprise a light level sensor (18) forproviding feedback to a building management system of a light level dataat a computer desk or at a keyboard area.

The preferred embodiment of the keyboard (22) is preferably operated bya method comprising the steps of initially detecting movement of a userfor a predetermined period, and subsequently instructing a computer tosleep, hibernate, or shut down in the event no presence of a user isdetected for the predetermined period.

Referring to FIG. 6, the figure illustrates a graphical representationof a setup for operation of the apparatus according to another preferredembodiment of the present invention.

As it is shown in FIG. 5, the apparatus according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention is mounted below a monitor of thepersonal computer (21). This preferred embodiment is further connectedto a power strip (31), wherein the power strip (31) comprises aplurality of electrical outlets (32) with the personal computer (21),and other peripheral devices connected to the other electrical outlets.Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7, the apparatus according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention may be mounted to aportion of desk upon which the personal computer (21) is supported. Theapparatus may be mounted using double-sided adhesive tape or any othersuitable device for mounting the apparatus to a structure.

The method of operation of the apparatus in the preferred embodiment ofthe present invention in FIG. 6, comprises the steps of initiallydetecting presence of a user for a predetermined period, transmitting acontrol signal to a device connected to the apparatus for powering downthe device in an event an absence of the user is detected within thepredetermined period, and terminating power supply to at least anelectrical outlet of the power strip (31).

The control signal is an artificial signal comprehensible by the devicefor powering down operation of the device. In other words, the apparatusinstructs the personal computer (21) to sleep/off via an artificialkeystroke/mimicry of a keyboard connected to the personal computer (21).Ultimately, no software is required to perform this action.

Referring to FIG. 8, the figure illustrates a schematic representationof a system for controlling electric power supply according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention. The system comprisesfundamentally a device (41) and a sensor (42).

The device (41) according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention is for receiving external signals, converting the externalsignals into media content, and for broadcasting the media content. Thedevice (41) is, preferably but not limited to, a set-top box, andcomprises a hard disk drive (HDD), memory and persistent internetconnection, which requires proper shutdown procedure. The system of thepresent invention is also capable for implementation for devices such asstreaming devices or smart televisions. The sensor (42) according to thepreferred embodiment of the present invention monitors presence of auser and the sensor (42) is configured for transmitting a sensing signalto the device (41) via a communication protocol. Within the operation ofthe system of the present invention, the device (41) comprises aprocessing module (43) for receiving and processing the sensing signal,and powering down operation of the device (41) in an event the sensor(42) detects that the device (41) is operating in an absence of theuser.

The device (41) according to the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention is configured for receiving external signals from a cablenetwork or internet. The external signals are preferably signalscomprising media information, which are converted to media content bythe device (41), and the media content is subsequently broadcasted to auser. The device (41) is preferably configured for broadcasting mediacontent via a television set (51), and the device (41) is alsoconfigured for detecting radio frequency activity. It is shown in FIG. 8that the device (41) is a set-top box (STB) comprising a processingmodule (43), high definition media interface (HDMI) port, and a (USB)port. The processing module (43) is configured to receive signals from aradio frequency remote control (53) and infrared signals from aninfrared remote control (52). The HDMI port is shown in FIG. 8 toprovide connectivity to a television set (51) having a HDMI port andalso accommodates HDMI CEC (consumer electronics control) function. Thesensor (42) is shown in FIG. 8 that the sensor (42) is connected to thedevice (41) via a USB port. The device (41) is also shown connected tothe internet, preferably via Wifi or Ethernet connection.

The sensor (42) according to the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention is any one of an infrared sensor or a passive infrared sensor,and the sensor (42) is configured for detecting any one of an infraredactivity or a passive infrared activity respectively. The sensor (42) isconfigured to provide only sensing signals to the device (41). No timeror logic module is required in the sensor (42). In this directconfiguration of the sensor (42), cost of manufacturing of the sensor(42) is greatly curtailed.

The sensor (42) in a preferred embodiment of the present invention is anelectronic sensor for detecting motion. It will be appreciated that thesensor (42) is preferably other than an electronic sensor, wherein themotion can be detected by: optical sensors such as, preferably but notlimited to, a video and camera system; sound sensors such as microphonesand acoustic sensors; magnetism such as, preferably but not limited to,magnetic sensors and magnetometer; radio frequency energy such as,preferably but not limited to, radar, microwave, and tomographic motiondetection; or vibration sensors such as, preferably but not limited to,triboelectric, seismic, and inertia-switch sensors.

The processing module (43) according to the preferred embodiment of thepresent invention is configured for alerting the user in the absence ofdetection of a radio frequency activity, an infrared activity or apassive infrared activity, by preferably displaying an onscreen warning.The processing module (43) resides within the device (41) and isconfigured for communication with at least a HDMI port, at least a USBport, at least a radio frequency remote control (53), and at least aninfrared remote control (52). The processing module (43) preferablycomprises a timer configured for tracking detection of a radio frequencyactivity and an infrared activity or a passive infrared activity for apredetermined period of time. In the event the radio frequency activity,an infrared activity or a passive infrared activity is detected withinthe predetermined period of time, the timer according to the presentinvention is configured to reset. The timer is preferably set on thedevice (41) via an onscreen setup. Also, the processing module (43)preferably comprises a logic module configured for powering down thedevice (41), electrical appliance, and peripherals connected to thedevice (41). The timer is initiated when alerting the user for poweringdown operation of the device (41), electrical appliance, and peripheralsconnected to the device (41) for a predetermined period of time, forexample, ten minutes. The timer decrements every minute, and thepowering down operation of the device (41), and any electrical applianceconnected to the device (41) is triggered if no radio frequencyactivity, an infrared activity or a passive infrared activity isdetected by the end of the predetermined period of time.

Further, the device (41) of the present invention is configured fordetecting the sensor (42) and if the device (41) has an internetconnection, the device (41) is able to provide information on a statusof the sensor (42), which is a basic reporting on the connection statusof the sensor (42), whether the sensor (42) is installed and the sensor(42) is still connected. The objective is to provide persistence data tothe utility or program implementers. With regards to the communicationprotocol, the communication protocol of the present invention ispreferably assisted by a USB connection to the device (41), and the USBconnection is also configured for receiving electric power from thedevice (41).

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sensor (42) isplugged into the device (41) via the USB port and the sensor (42) drawspower from the USB port. If no user activity is detected, whether radiofrequency activity, an infrared activity or a passive infrared activityfor a predetermined period of time, then the device (41) will display anonscreen warning, for example, “System will enter sleep mode in Xminutes”. It is suggested as starting at ten minutes, and every minutethis is decremented and when it gets to zero, the device (41) switchesthe television (51) to power off states, and switches the peripherals toenter low power standby mode. In the event that the user presses aremote control whether the radio frequency remote control (53) orinfrared remote control (52) or if motion is detected, during thewarning time, the countdown timer in the device (41) is completelycancelled such that the device (41) and the television (51) do not turnoff.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, FIG. 9 illustrates a graphicalrepresentation of an apparatus for controlling electric power supplyaccording to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, of whichis fundamentally a sensor (42) as depicted in FIG. 8. The sensor (42) isconnected to a device (41) shown in FIG. 8.

The sensor (42) according to the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention monitors presence of a user and the sensor (42) is configuredfor transmitting a sensing signal to the device (41) via a communicationprotocol. The device (41) according to a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention is for receiving external signals, converting theexternal signals into media content, and for broadcasting the mediacontent. The device (41), is preferably but not limited to, a set-topbox, and comprises a hard disk drive (HDD), memory and persistentinternet connection, which requires proper shutdown procedure. Thesystem of the present invention is also capable for implementation fordevices such as streaming devices or smart televisions. Within theoperation of the system of the present invention, the device (41)comprises a processing module (43) for receiving and processing thesensing signal, and powering down operation of the device (41) in anevent the sensor (42) detects that the device (41) is operating in anabsence of the user.

The device (41) according to the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention is configured for receiving external signals from a cablenetwork or internet. The external signals are preferably signalscomprising media information, which are converted to media content bythe device (41) and the media content is subsequently broadcasted to auser. The device (41) is preferably configured for broadcasting mediacontent via a television set (51), and the device (41) is alsoconfigured for detecting radio frequency activity. It is shown in FIG. 8that the device (41) is a set-top box (STB) comprising a processingmodule (43), high definition media interface (HDMI) port, and auniversal serial bus (USB) port. The processing module (43) isconfigured to receive signals from a radio frequency remote control (53)and infrared signals from an infrared remote control (52). The HDMI portis shown in FIG. 8 to provide connectivity to a television set (51)having a HDMI port and also accommodates HDMI CEC (consumer electronicscontrol) function. The sensor (42) is shown in FIG. 8 that the sensor(42) is connected to the device (41) via a USB port. The device (41) isalso shown in FIG. 8 connected to the internet, preferably via Wifi orEthernet connection.

The sensor (42) according to the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention is any one of an infrared sensor or a passive infrared sensor,and the sensor (42) is configured for detecting any one of an infraredactivity or a passive infrared activity. The sensor (42) is configuredto provide only sensing signals to the device (41). No timer or logicmodule is required in the sensor (42). In this direct configuration ofthe sensor (42), cost of manufacturing of the sensor (42) is greatlycurtailed.

The sensor (42) in a preferred embodiment of the present invention is anelectronic sensor for detecting motion. It will be appreciated that thesensor (42) is preferably other than an electronic sensor, wherein themotion can be detected by: optical sensors such as, preferably but notlimited to, a video and camera system; sound sensors such as microphonesand acoustic sensors; magnetism such as, preferably but not limited to,magnetic sensors and magnetometer; radio frequency energy such as,preferably but not limited to, radar, microwave, and tomographic motiondetection; or vibration sensors such as, preferably but not limited to,triboelectric, seismic, and inertia-switch sensors.

The processing module (43) according to the preferred embodiment of thepresent invention is configured for alerting the user in the absence ofdetection of a radio frequency activity, an infrared activity or apassive infrared activity, by preferably displaying an onscreen warning.The processing module (43) resides within the device (41) and isconfigured for communication with at least a HDMI port, at least a USBport, at least a radio frequency remote control (53), and at least aninfrared remote control (52). The processing module (43) preferablycomprises a timer configured for tracking detection of a radio frequencyactivity, an infrared activity, or a passive infrared activity for apredetermined period of time. In the event the radio frequency activity,an infrared activity, or a passive infrared activity is detected withinthe predetermined period of time, the timer according to the presentinvention is configured to reset. The timer is preferably set on thedevice (41) via an onscreen setup. Also, the processing module (43)preferably comprises a logic module configured for powering down thedevice, electrical appliance and peripherals connected to the device.The timer is initiated when alerting the user for powering downoperation of the device (41), electrical appliance, and peripheralsconnected to the device (41) for a predetermined period of time, forexample, ten minutes. The timer decrements every minute, and thepowering down operation of the device (41), and any electrical applianceconnected to the device (41) is triggered if no radio frequencyactivity, an infrared activity or a passive infrared activity isdetected by the end of the predetermined period of time.

Further, the device (41) of the present invention is configured fordetecting the sensor (42) and if the device (41) has an internetconnection, the device (41) is able to provide information on a statusof the sensor (42), which is a basic reporting on the connection statusof the sensor (42), whether the sensor (42) is installed, and the sensor(42) is still connected. The objective is to provide persistence data tothe utility or program implementers. With regards to the communicationprotocol, the communication protocol of the present invention ispreferably assisted by a universal serial bus (USB) connection to thedevice (41), and the USB connection is also configured for receivingelectric power from the device (41).

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method ofoperation of the apparatus comprising the steps of initially monitoringpresence of a user, then, alerting the user in an event the sensordetects that the device is operating in an absence of the user, then,tracking detection of the user activity for a predetermined period oftime, and powering down the device in the event the absence of the useris detected for the predetermined period of time. The user activitycomprises any one or in any combination of a radio frequency activity,an infrared activity, or a passive infrared activity.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method ofoperation of the apparatus comprising the steps of initially monitoringpresence of a user, then, alerting the user in an event the sensordetects that the device is operating in an absence of the user, then,tracking detection of the user activity for a predetermined period oftime, and resetting a timer in the event the presence of the user isdetected. The user activity comprises any one or in any combination of aradio frequency activity, an infrared activity, or a passive infraredactivity.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sensor (42) isplugged into the device (41) via the USB port and the sensor (42) drawspower from the USB port. If no user activity is detected, whether radiofrequency activity, an infrared activity, or a passive infrared activityfor a predetermined period of time, then the device (41) will display anonscreen warning, for example, “System will enter sleep mode in Xminutes”. It is suggested as starting at ten minutes, and every minutethis is decremented and when it gets to zero, the device (41) switchesthe television (51) to power off states, and switches the peripherals toenter low power standby mode. In the event that the user presses aremote control whether the radio frequency remote control (53) orinfrared remote control (52) or if motion is detected, during thewarning time, the countdown timer in the device (41) is completelycancelled such that the device (41) and the television (51) do not turnoff.

Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose ofillustration based on what is currently considered to be the mostpractical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that suchdetail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limitedto the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to covermodifications and equivalent arrangements. For example, it is to beunderstood that the present invention contemplates that, to the extentpossible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined withone or more features of any other embodiment.

The invention claimed is
 1. A system for controlling electric powersupply comprising: a device for receiving external signals, convertingthe external signals into media content, and for broadcasting the mediacontent; and a sensor for monitoring presence of the user, the sensor isconfigured for transmitting a sensing signal to the device via acommunication protocol, wherein the device comprises a processing modulefor receiving and processing the sensing signal, and powering downoperation of the device in an event the sensor detects that the deviceis operating in an absence of the user.
 2. The system according to claim1, wherein the device is configured for receiving external signals froma cable network.
 3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the deviceis configured for receiving external signals from internet.
 4. Thesystem according to claim 1, wherein the device is configured forbroadcasting media content via a television set.
 5. The system accordingto claim 1, wherein the device is configured for detecting radiofrequency activity.
 6. The system according to claim 1, wherein thesensor is any one of an infrared sensor or a passive infrared sensor. 7.The system according to claim 6, wherein the sensor is configured fordetecting any one of an infrared activity or a passive infraredactivity.
 8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processingmodule is configured for alerting the user in the absence of detectionof a radio frequency activity, an infrared activity, or a passiveinfrared activity.
 9. The system according to claim 8, wherein theprocessing module comprises a timer configured for tracking detection ofa radio frequency activity, an infrared activity, or a passive infraredactivity for a predetermined period of time.
 10. The system according toclaim 9, wherein the timer is reset in the event the radio frequencyactivity, an infrared activity, or a passive infrared activity isdetected.
 11. The system according to claim 9, wherein the processingmodule comprises a logic module configured for powering down the device,an electrical appliance, or peripherals connected to the device by theend of the predetermined period of time.
 12. The system according toclaim 1, wherein the device is configured for detecting and providinginformation on a status of the sensor.
 13. The system according to claim1, wherein the communication protocol is assisted by a universal serialbus connection to the device.
 14. The system according to claim 13,wherein the universal serial bus connection is configured for receivingelectric power from the device.
 15. An apparatus for controllingelectric power supply comprising: a sensor for monitoring presence of auser, and the sensor is configured for transmitting a sensing signal toa device via a communication protocol, wherein the device is configuredfor receiving external signals, converting the external signals intomedia content and for broadcasting the media content, and the devicefurther comprises a processing module for receiving and processing thesensing signal, and powering down operation of the device in an eventthe sensor detects that the device is operating in an absence of theuser.
 16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the device isconfigured for receiving external signals from a cable network.
 17. Theapparatus according to claim 15, wherein the device is configured forreceiving external signals from internet.
 18. The apparatus according toclaim 15, wherein the device is configured for broadcasting mediacontent via a television set.
 19. The apparatus according to claim 15,wherein the device is configured for detecting radio frequency activity.20. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the sensor is any oneof an infrared sensor or a passive infrared sensor.
 21. The apparatusaccording to claim 20, wherein the sensor is configured for detectingany one of an infrared activity or a passive infrared activity.
 22. Theapparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processing module isconfigured for alerting the user in the absence of a radio frequencyactivity, an infrared activity, or a passive infrared activity.
 23. Theapparatus according to claim 22, wherein the processing module comprisesa timer configured for tracking detection of a radio frequency activity,an infrared activity, or a passive infrared activity for a predeterminedperiod of time.
 24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein thetimer is reset in the event the radio frequency activity, an infraredactivity or a passive infrared activity is detected.
 25. The apparatusaccording to claim 22, wherein the processing module comprises a logicmodule configured for powering down the device, an electrical appliance,or peripherals connected to the device by the end of the predeterminedperiod of time.
 26. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein thedevice is configured for detecting and providing information on a statusof the sensor.
 27. The system according to claim 15, wherein thecommunication protocol is assisted by a universal serial bus connectionto the device.
 28. The system according to claim 27, wherein theuniversal serial bus connection is configured for receiving electricpower from the device.
 29. A method of operation of the apparatus ofclaim 15 comprising the steps of: monitoring presence of a user;alerting the user in an event the sensor detects that the device isoperating in an absence of the user; tracking detection of the useractivity for a predetermined period of time; and powering down thedevice in the event the absence of the user is detected for thepredetermined period of time.
 30. A method of operation of the apparatusof claim 15 comprising the steps of: monitoring presence of a user;alerting the user in an event the sensor detects that the device isoperating in an absence of the user; tracking detection of the useractivity for a predetermined period of time; and resetting a timer inthe event the presence of the user is detected.